ManU is "set for crunch talks with UEFA over escalating ticket prices" in the Champions League, according to Jack Gaughan of the London DAILY MAIL. ManU execs have reportedly "instigated a meeting" with UEFA "following the fiasco surrounding next month’s tie against Sevilla." Sevilla announced before Christmas that traveling supporters "were to be charged a whopping" £89 ($124) to watch the first leg in Spain on Feb. 21. ManU was "incensed" and committed to refunding fans £35 ($49) to bring the cost down. That move is being subsidized by "hiking prices up for Sevilla’s contingent at Old Trafford." But ManU’s grievances "go further than Sevilla, with fans insistent they are constantly ripped off on the continent because of the club’s prestige" (DAILY MAIL, 1/18).

PRICE INFLATION: In Edinburgh, David Bol reported rugby fans "will be left out of pocket as touts cash in on inflated prices for Six Nations tickets." With "no tickets remaining for Scotland’s two home clashes with England and France, desperate fans have been left with no alternative" but to pay up to £2,200 ($3,000) for "a chance to enjoy the action." Ticket website Viagogo is offering tickets for the Calcutta Cup clash with England for £2,200 -- with the cheapest tickets available for a "whopping" £340 ($472) (EDINBURGH EVENING NEWS, 1/18).